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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

star-4.5546 Reviews
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Badge of Excellence
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Chicago, United States
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
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Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
360 panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.
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From $40.00

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Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn more
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Safety measures
icon1 hour 30 minutes  (Approx.)
Mobile ticket
iconOffered in: English and 2 more

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Overview

Step aboard a boat for a comprehensive cruise that details the history of Chicago's architecture. Enjoy views of the Chicago skyline accompanied by architecture-focused commentary that points out each of the landmark buildings. As you cruise through Lake Michigan, snap photos of you and your party against the stretch of Chicago's 26-mile shoreline.
  • Comprehensive architectural tour
  • Live commentary on Chicago's architectural gems
  • Travel by boat along the Lake Michigan shoreline
  • Buy tickets in advance for this must-do Chicago activity
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From $40.00

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Departure Point

400 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA

The vessel departs and returns to Wendella's Michigan Avenue Docks located in the heart of Chicago's Magnificent Mile, at the base of the Wrigley Building. Look for the blue "Wendella" awning over the dock staircase. Descend the stairs to the river-level dock.

Return Details

Returns to original departure point
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Weapons prohibited by US Coast Guard
  • Stroller accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Outside alcohol is prohibited
  • All bags are subject to search
  • Increased sanitation and hand sanitizer stations
  • Arrive 15-30 Minutes prior to your departure time
  • Most travelers can participate
  • Contact tour operator for wheelchair & ADA access
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 300 travelers
  • OPERATED BY Wendella Boats
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Learn more about cancellations.

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given by the tour provider to customers’ questions.
Q:
Where do we meet for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:We are located at 400 N Michigan Avenue at the historic Wrigley Building. Wendella has four dock locations that extend west from the Michigan Avenue (DuSable) Bridge to Wabash Avenue.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is there parking available for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:There are two parking garages near the departure point: AMA Plaza parking at 401 N. State Street and InterPark Public Parking at 430 N. Rush St. (Parking fees apply at both locations.)
Apr 2021
Q:
Is the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour handicap accessible?
A:We operate 3 boats with wheelchair lifts between decks. All our boats can accommodate wheelchairs & have toilets that are ADA compliant. For guests who are deaf or hard of hearing, a written script of the narration is available at the ticket office.
Apr 2021
Q:
Can I bring my service animal with me on the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:A service animal is a dog that is trained to do work or perform tasks for a person with a disability. Pets and dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA and are not allowed.
Apr 2021
Q:
Are there restrooms available on board the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:Yes. Restrooms are located on the lower deck of each vessel; changing tables are also available in each restroom.
Apr 2021
Q:
How early should I arrive for the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:Boarding begins 15-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Apr 2021
Q:
Does the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour operate in bad weather?
A:Our cruises depart rain or shine. Our vessels include sheltered areas and climate-controlled lounges. Ponchos are available for purchase onboard. However, in cases of severe weather where the cruise must be canceled, all guests will be refunded.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is the boat climate controlled during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:Most of our vessels feature an enclosed climate-controlled lounge on the lower deck with speakers to hear the tour guide’s narration. If you have a concern about whether your vessel has an interior lounge, please call the phone number on your ticket.
Apr 2021
Q:
Is food/drink available during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:A full-service bar is available onboard. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as an assortment of snacks, are available for purchase. Bar sales are credit cards only. No cash purchases.
Apr 2021
Q:
Can I store my luggage during the Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:There is no storage area on our dock, but guests may bring their luggage aboard keeping in mind it is subject to inspection.
Apr 2021
Q:
What is the policy on face masks and attendee health during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:The policies on face masks and attendee health are:

  • Face masks required for travelers in public areas
  • Face masks required for guides in public areas
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What is the policy on sanitization during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:The policies on sanitization are:

  • Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What is the social distancing policy during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:The policy on social distancing is:

  • Social distancing enforced throughout experience
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.
Q:
What measures are being taken to ensure staff health & safety during Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour?
A:The policy on staff health & safety is:

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
See all safety measures taken by Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour.

Traveler Photos

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Traveler Tips

  • "This is an absolute must if you are coming to Chicago for the first time OR if you have been to Chicago many times but have never seen the beautiful cityscape from the lake." See review
  • "To see the city from the lake and river is a must.. Too much to miss out if you are not doing both." See review

Reviews

4.5
star-4.5
546 Reviews
5 stars
460
4 stars
53
3 stars
10
2 stars
9
1 star
14

Reviews by Viator travelers

Showing 1-10 of 546 reviews
star-5
Wonderful tour
Vickie_M
, Oct 2021
The tour guide was very informative. The boat captain was friendly and gave us recommendations on what to do in the city and where to eat.
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star-5
Awesome time! Well worth it!
Tracey_L
, Oct 2021
Our tour guide was amazing! He was a walking historian and knew so much about everything! Even though it was raining, he kept right on without hesitation and definitely kept his sense of humor. We also loved his corny jokes!
... MoreLess
star-5
Lake plus river architecture tour was fabulous!
Cori_P
, Oct 2021
Our guide was extremely informative and had a humorous delivery. I have been on the river tour with different companies before and have always learned a lot about Chicago and its architecture but this is the first time we went in the lake-river tour combination. I would highly recommend it.
... MoreLess
star-5
Beautiful panoramic view of downtown Chicago from the River and the Lake.
ROLANDO_E
, Oct 2021
Fantastic views of the beautiful City architecture from the River and the Lake. The two bodies of water give this City a special charming gorgeous presence.
... MoreLess
star-5
Great trip, informative and entertaining. Our guide was fabulous!
Linda_R
, Oct 2021
Beautiful day and very knowledgeable guide. Enjoyed not just information, but also little rid bits about architecture. I would highly recommend And would go again.
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star-5
Wonderful experience - Terrific Guide
Edmund_J
, Oct 2021
I am not typically a fan of touristy things like this, but this architecture tour was one of the best things I have ever experienced. The tour guide was funny, professional and very knowledgeable. I learned so much about the architecture and history of the city. The trip up and down the Chicago river and into Lake Michigan was beautiful and breathtaking. I can't wait to come back. I seriously recommend this tour for anyone.
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star-4
Allow lot of time to find parking as well as dock
Manjula_J
, Oct 2021
Missed full tour boat with lake as no directions on parking or how to find the place :( otherwise would give 5 stars!
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star-5
Although it was a rainy...
Denise_D
, Oct 2021
Although it was a rainy windy day our very knowledgeable and engaging tour guide made the tour well worth it !!
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star-5
Great guide!
Karen_S
, Oct 2021
Nice intro into the city for people from out of town. It was also great for a Chicago native. I wish we could have gone further on the river, but know I'll try the river only tour next.
... MoreLess
star-5
Good times.
Isis_Z
, Oct 2021
The river and structure information was awesome and informative. The employees were lovely as well. Thank you!
... MoreLess

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